STRESS IN INTERVIEWS
How to Control and Use Stress to Your Advantage
General Notes on Interviewing:
In order to make a lasting impression with your personality in an interview, two most important factors are charisma and energy! During interviews it is important to respond to an interviewer on an earthy, non-intellectual level. When you go into an interview, it is important to be seen in the right way. To do that, you have to be in your optimal operating state.
Stress relievers prior to interviewing include two tactics: One Minute Free-For-All: Speak loudly for one minute. Say whatever comes to your mind and you’ll find yourself loosening up and feeling more confident. This drill is like tapping into what kids do naturally-playing. They don’t mind looking stupid or silly, they’re just playing around. If you become embarrassed or are thinking “am I making a fool of myself?” you’re in the wrong frame of mind. These drills will help you get out of that.
I-don’t care swing: Swing your arms from side to side and yell, “I don’t care!” This drill will relax your entire body and mind.
Following are simple, basic methods to use when trying to make a positive impression:
| STRESS FACTOR | RELIEF FACTOR |
| Dry throat, sweat palms, wobbly knees. | Speak confidently about something you like. Focus on something "fun" |
| You are totally unprepared for the meeting. | Don’t announce you didn’t have time to check out their program. Put a question to the interviewer such as “how successful have your graduates been in finding work.?” |
| You are late or got lost and are late. | Call on cell phone-contact person who called you-apologize and ask if you can reschedule. |
| This interview is going poorly. | You may/may not have an accurate “read” on the impressions you are giving the interviewer. Right now, take a deep breath and focus your attention on getting as much information as possible. Later, ask for feedback from the interviewer. |